Sporting legends turn out in style

Boston Spa Scarecrow Trail, run with with Thorp Arch and Clifford, is seeing 92 exhibits with the theme of sporting legends, in place until Sunday July 13 after opening on Saturday July 4.

The Scarecrow Trail was again organised by David Watts, assisted by Gaby Morrison for Thorp Arch and Jenny Burton for Clifford.

Last year’s coordinator of the Festival, Geoff Shaw, as well as next year’s coordinator, Jeffrey Newton, were also involved in planning the event.

There are 71 scarecrows in Boston Spa, 11 in Thorp Arch and 10 in Clifford.

“We have 30 more scarecrows than we had last year, and it’s great to see so many folks out and about,” said Mr Watts.

“Over 500 Trail maps were sold on the first weekend and we expect the second weekend to be even busier.”

Trail maps are available in Boston Spa from Douglas Yeadons Hardware, Costcutter, and the Martin House shop at a cost of £2, with all proceeds going to Martin House.

The Scarecrow Trail is the only part of the annual Boston Spa Festival that wasn’t cancelled this year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Everyone who buys a map will have an opportunity to vote for their favourite sporting legends, with prizes for the creators of the winners and for those who can identify the most characters.

Visitors to Boston Spa can view the 63 flags on High Street, made by local people, to replace hanging baskets.

St Edward’s Catholic Primary School home learners, who are unable to come to go to school at this time, made the crowd in their display.

A school spokesman said: “Year 6 and myself would like to thank you for organising this event this year.

“Whilst their ending to primary school has been very different to usual, they have really enjoyed working together on this project and it’s been lovely to see our whole school community join together even in a small way.

“Our families too really appreciate the adventure of finding the different displays around the village.”